§ 235 § Distressing though it may be, the contemporary reality compels the Church to be mindful also of security issues for the church building. This is appropriate not only for the sake of securing items and treasures within the church building, but also equally important for the safety of the faithful. It is unfortunate that so many churches today must be locked, thus preventing the faithful from entering for prayer and meditation except for specific times. Investigation should be made regarding the possibility of securing the items inside the church in such a way as to allow the faithful greater access to this house of prayer.

Our building is open sixteen hours a day. Our recent fire was started intentionally at 10:30 in the evening. A person intent on making mischief will find a way to do it. But I agree with the bishops that reasonable precautions can be taken without losing a sense of welcome.

What are your parish’s practices? And what are the surroundings that inform those practices?